Turkish Embassy in US holds ceremony to commemorate 8th anniversary of 2016 coup attempt
Date
7/15/2024 3:49:49 AM
(MENAFN) The Turkish Embassy in the United States held a commemoration ceremony on Sunday to mark the eighth anniversary of the 2016 failed coup attempt in Türkiye. The event began with a moment of silence and the Turkish national anthem, followed by a recitation of the Quran in honor of the victims of the coup.
Turkish Ambassador to the US, Sedat Onal, emphasized that eight years ago, the Fetullah terrorist Organization (FETO), described as a "treacherous cult," attempted to overthrow the elected government, assassinate President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and seize control of key institutions. He noted that FETO had "insidiously" infiltrated Turkish state structures over decades, targeting not only democracy and the constitutional order but also the Armed Forces, police, and judiciary.
Onal characterized the coup attempt as a "traumatic event" for the Turkish nation, highlighting the resilience and bravery of the Turkish people in defending their democracy. He praised citizens from all backgrounds who stood against the "heinous coup attempt," demonstrating "exemplary resistance" to protect the constitutional order and uphold the rule of law.
While acknowledging that the coup was prevented, Onal stated that Türkiye's struggle continues. He pointed out that over the past eight years, the "malign nature of this terrorist cult" has been increasingly exposed, with its true intentions revealed. Onal reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to pursuing justice and holding accountable those responsible for the coup, criticizing how Fetullah Gulen and his followers, living in the US, have yet to be brought to justice.
He expressed concern that while the Turkish American community has distanced itself from FETO, some members still manage to find support within the US Congress, spreading misinformation to undermine Turkish-American relations. Onal urged Türkiye's American allies to remain vigilant against the "poisonous narrative" of FETO and to collaborate with Turkish authorities in bringing its members to justice. He stressed that this issue transcends bilateral relations and is essential for upholding the universal values shared by both nations.
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